The Tragic Life of Lady Jane Grey by Beverly Adam’s tells the story of the life of the young woman known to history as the “Nine Days Queen.” Jane Grey was executed at sixteen by Mary I for treason, having taken the throne under duress from the adults around her and reigning as Queen for less than two weeks.

Jane Grey was entwined with the royal family of England from birth. Her grandmother was Mary Tudor, Queen of France, and her grandfather was the best friend of King Henry VIII, Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk. Royal blood ran through Jane’s veins, and when Henry VIII’s son was dying, he named the Protestant Jane his heir in place of his sisters, leading to what would become her gruesome end.

Adam’s does a good job telling the life of a young woman who was betrayed by her family. As with most women in history, there is very little documentation about the person in question, but Adam’s works well with the sources she has available. I highly recommend this book for fans of Tudor history or those who are interested in learning more about the Grey family.

Thank you to Netgalley and Pen & Sword for the advanced digital reader copy.

I have been fascinated by the story of Lady Jane Grey since childhood and visited Bradgate Park many times over the years, latterly as a visitor experience volunteer. This new book, though it does not shed new insight into her tragic past is an enjoyable and thought provoking read. It is an eloquent addition to the catalogue of other books looking at Jane Grey's short life and death. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.

I think the tragic life of lady Jane is so interesting (and sad). I’m not much of a history girl but I felt this was informative and a good length with the right amount of information.